OEO Studio Designs Timeless Interiors for Noma Pop-Up in Kyoto

For its latest pop-up in Japan, Noma enlisted the skills of Danish designers OEO Studio to create interiors that reflect both the restaurant’s heritage and its vision for the Kyoto branch.

Working alongside the Ace Hotel, OEO Studios has transformed an existing restaurant into the latest Noma pop-up. The space already boasted credentials such as high ceilings and views across the gardens. It also featured a secondary dining room and two private dining rooms – all of which have been updated to suit the spirit of Noma.

Across the design, nods to both Nordic and Japanese cultures are implemented. Tactility and warmth are key factors, with soft lighting casting shadows across the earthy color palette. Furniture includes a mix of custom pieces and those sourced from brands such as Time & Style and Stellar Works. The studio’s own AYA collection also features and was inspired by the similarities and differences between Japanese and Scandinavian design aesthetics.

Local craftspeople were brought on board to create surface materials and ceramic pieces – from tatami mats that double up as acoustic walls and room dividers, to bamboo structures that hang from the ceilings to create dining zones.

According to René Redzepi, chef and owner of Noma, the pop-up has taken around two years to come to life. “Everything needs to be thoroughly considered – from the choice of products and producers to what the restaurant should look like,” he says.

“Here, we had no doubt at all that OEO Studio was the right people for the project. With all their experience and expertise in design and craftsmanship in Japan, it has been a perfect match. OEO Studio has managed to create a space for Noma Kyoto that is based on our identity yet also shows great respect for local design and craftsmanship,” he continues.

Take a look around the space above, and for more design - check out the glowing resin installation designed for the new Sydney Modern Gallery Shop.